Helen
Helen first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1918, when 36,148 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 668.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Helen popular?
Steady Helen has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1918.
| 2020s | 4,347 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 7,585 | |
| 2000s | 8,847 | |
| 1990s | 8,403 | |
| 1980s | 8,413 | |
| 1970s | 11,476 | |
| 1960s | 29,099 | |
| 1950s | 57,580 | |
| 1940s | 90,742 | |
| 1930s | 140,426 | |
| 1920s | 290,404 | |
| 1910s | 248,154 | |
| 1900s | 69,428 | |
| 1890s | 37,802 | |
| 1880s | 11,496 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Helen mean?
Helen comes from Greek and is traditionally linked to “torch” or “light,” from a root meaning “shining.” Helen of Troy was, in Homer, the face “that launched a thousand ships.”
Nicknames for Helen
- Nell
- Nellie
- Lena
Variants & spellings
- Helena
- Hélène
- Elena
Names like Helen
Greek names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Helen
Popular Greek names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Helen
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Helen mean?
Helen means Torch, light. Helen comes from Greek and is traditionally linked to “torch” or “light,” from a root meaning “shining.” Helen of Troy was, in Homer, the face “that launched a thousand ships.”
What is the origin of the name Helen?
Helen is of Greek origin.
How do you pronounce Helen?
Helen is pronounced “HEL-un.”
Is Helen a boy or a girl name?
Helen is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Helen a popular name right now?
Helen has held fairly steady over the past decade, after peaking in 1918.
How popular is the name Helen?
In 2025, Helen ranked #462 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Helen most popular?
Helen was most popular in 1918, when about 36,148 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Helen?
Common nicknames for Helen include Nell, Nellie, Lena.
What names are similar to Helen?
Names similar to Helen include Helena, Elena, Eleanor, Nora.
What names go well with Helen?
Greek names that pair well with Helen include Christopher, Cynthia, Andrew, Timothy, Nicholas.